Voyage of the Naginata

Serra leaned back in her chair, the “whirring” star drive of her freighter was like a lullaby to her. She closed her eyes and relaxed, having always enjoyed these long runs to fringe space, it was quiet, and once out of the jurisdiction of the Templars (a galactic peace-keeping force) she had few other concerns. She put her heavy-booted feet on the console and laced her fingers behind her red hair that was tied into a high ponytail. Just as she began to doze off, she could hear footsteps coming up the hallway to the bridge. She sighed because she knew what was coming, but she didn’t mind, she was in her ‘happy place’.

“Captain, engines are operating at 87% efficiency.” A female voice broke her calm.

“Very good Cali, thank you.” She paused, then spoke again without opening her eyes. “Cali?”

“Yes, Captain?”

“How long have you been the engineer on this ship?”

“I… four years… why?”

“I think, after four years, you can drop that Captain crap.”

“Cap- I mean… Serra, I…” she stammered.

“Relax Cali, we’re friends, treat me that way.” She insisted.

“Is that an order?” Cali asked sarcastically.

“Yes.” Serra replied. The two of them chuckled quietly.

“Ca-… Serra?”

“Yes?”

“Why do you always take these longer, lower-paying jobs over the shorter better-paying jobs?” Cali asked, looking at the star chart.

“Because I enjoy runs to fringe space and these are usually way more mundane and less dangerous.” She explained.

“But… pirates usually lurk out here in the black,” Cali replied.

“Maybe, but a ship this small, they wouldn’t give us a second glance. They probably don’t think we’d haul much of anything out here. Plus, I have an… understanding with the Reapers.” Serra explained.

“Wait, you have an arrangement with the most dangerous gang of thugs, murderers and mercenaries in fringe space?!”

“Well, let’s just say… I know their number two… intimately.” Serra replied.

“Is that right?” Cali said intrigued.

“What’s his name?”

“Kyree.”

“Kyree? Weird name for a guy.” Cali replied.

“I never said it was a guy,” Serra responded smiling to herself.

“Wait… what?!” Cali turned her seat to look at Serra, “You snogging a woman?!”

“Among others,” Serra replied matter of factly. Cali sat in stunned silence for a minute, until a chime softly toned from the console.

“Check it out for me, will you?” Serra said, still leaning back, eyes closed. Cali tapped a few buttons and checked a monitor.

“It’s… i…”

“What?” Serra grew annoyed.

“I’m not sure what it is, I’ve never seen these symbols before,” Cali said, concerned. Serra huffed and pulled her feet off the console. Her boots hit the metal deck with a dull thud.”Let me take a look.” She punched up the identification chart. After a moment, she took up a more attentive posture. “Cali, bring us up to battle posture!”

“Weapons priming, shields at 75%, and charging!” She said as the bridge lightning went from ambient yellow-white to red. Another sound echoed throughout the ship. A battle stations alert. In the distance, two sets of stomping feet could be heard rushing towards the bridge.

“Weapons ready!”

“Tactical computer up and tracking.” Serra replied, her long red ponytail swishing back and forth as she scanned the different readouts.

“Serra, what the hell is going on?!” A black-haired woman wearing cargo pants and a tank top asked as she entered and took a seat at another console behind Serra. Her tattooed covered arms swiftly moved across the console, bringing up situation readouts. She was followed by a large man with no hair who took a seat in front of Cali. “What is it boss?” He asked.

“I’ve triple checked, we’ve got two… wait, three Kurn pursuit ships about 150 clicks out and closing fast.

“Shit!” The tattooed woman growled.

“What are we going to do? This ship can’t outrun them!” The man said.

“I know.” Serra grumbled. “Cali, get back to the engine room and sweet talk those engines, get every ounce of juice out of them you can. If this turns into a fight, we’re gonna need it!” Serra said.

“Right!” Cali leaped from her seat and rushed off the bridge.

“Guns and shields at max output!” Lexi said as she brought up her targeting array.

“Good.”

“Kurn ships within visual range.” The man said.

“On screen Hawk,” Serra said and turned her attention to the viewer between the two windows that pointed out the front of the ship. There, still on an intercept vector were three Kurn Empire gunboats.

“Those are some sexy ships!” Hawk stated.

“Those sexy ships are gonna kill you!” The tattooed woman replied.

“Have you ever seen a Kurn woman, Blackstone? They are built like-”

“Can it!” Serra barked at them. She pressed a button on the upper control panel. “Cali, how is my girl?”

“She’s purring like a kitten, that overhaul I did really did her wonders. But if I heard you right, and they are Kurn ships, their alternating frequency beam cannons could be trouble for the shields!” She shouted.

“She really is full of herself, isn’t she?” Hawk remarked.

“Shut up Hawk!” The two said in unison.

“Serra… we’re being hailed!” Blackstone remarked.

“Put it through,” Serra replied stern-faced.

“SS Naginata, this is the Crimson Star”

“We hear you, what do you want?” Serra asked firmly.

“Serra, they have sent a visual message.”

“On screen.” She replied. The main viewer crackled as it resolved the different frequencies, then it came into focus. A tall, muscular, red-skinned woman with jet black hair scowled at them.

“To whom am I speaking?” She asked.

“I am Captain Serra Harkner.” She said proudly.

“I am Lord Marshall Katarina Graglubute”

“Graglubute?!” Blackstone said under her breath.

“Lord Marshall, it’s an honor, what can we do for you?” Serra tried to remain calm. Knowing a fight with one Kurn gunboat would be a fight for their lives, but three…

“Captain,” Katarina’s face softened. “I need… a favor.”

“A favor?” Serra echoed.

“Yes. I would like to discuss it, in person, if I may.” She said.

“A- Alright,” Serra responded.

“Okay, I’ll move my ship over and we can dock.”

“Right, we’ll be ready. Naginata out.” Serra cut the connection.

“Are you crazy boss?!” Hawk turned to her.

“Stand down.” Was all she said to him. She stood and turned to Blackstone. “Lexi, with me. Hawk, so the shelf so they can dock, but keep weapons charged and prepare to do an emergency shield raising if need be.”

Blackstone nodded grimly and followed her out of the bridge. Hawk grumbled under his breath as he powered down the ship’s shields. “If they change their mind, we’re all dead,” Hawk said to no one.

Serra and Lexi arrived at the docking tube entrance. While they waited, she shut off the red alert. A second later Cali’s voice blared over the comm.”What the hell is going on?!”

“Meet me at the docking tube,” Serra said over the comm.

Just as the docking tube connected with the Naginata, Cali arrived. “Uh, what the hell?”

“Just… stand by,” Serra said calmly. Moments later, after a seal was achieved, the airlock hissed and opened. Standing there in black leather and iron, accompanied by two others, stood Lord Marshall Katarina Graglubute.

“I… uh… hello.” Serra finally managed to greet the nearly six-and-a-half-foot-tall alien.

“Greetings Captain.” She said with what could have been a smile. Unusual for her war-like race.

“This is Blackstone, my first mate, and Cali, my engineer.” Serra introduced her crew.

Katarina nodded to them.

“Shall we gather in the lounge?” Serra suggested.

“Yes, thank you.”

Serra led the way to the lounge and took her usual seat. Katarina sat across from her. Blackstone and Cali flanked Serra while the two other Kurn stood behind Katarina.

“So, I’m a little… surprised by this, to be honest.” Serra shifted in her seat.

“I apologize for our aggressive posture, my people default to aggression.” Katarina said.

“It’s alright.” Serra cautioned a smile.

“So, let me get to it.” Serra nodded, urging her on. “I would like to hire your crew and ship.”

“Hire?” Serra said.

“Us?” Cali added.

“Yes. Let me explain.” She said, took a deep breath, and continued. “My brother and father have gone missing. I need to find them.”

“But why us? If you’re Lord Marshall, why not use the resources you have to find them?” Serra asked.

“Well, because my father is the Emperor and my brother is heir to the throne, and rallying that much military might and resources would bring up too much attention and concern. War for the throne would certainly erupt.” She explained.

“Wait.” Blackstone spoke up. “If your dad is the Emperor? And your brother is… a prince? That makes you…”

“Lord Marshall.” She replied curtly. “I refuse to take a royal title. I command the entirety of the Kurn military,” she said proudly.

“I see,” Blackstone replied and sat back.

“So, why us?” Serra asked.

“The Naginata has a very good reputation and it’ll keep the operation quiet.” She said, “if you agree.”

“Okay. ” Serra paused for a moment, she cleared her throat and spoke. “About payment.”

“Payment?! This is the Kurn!” Blackstone warned her.

“No no… it’s okay.” Katarina said with a smile. She gestured to one of her companions who brought forth a small case and handed it to Serra. She opened it and gasped.

“How… How much is here?”

“1 million credits. This is a retainer fee, you will be given expenses as we go. Fuel, repairs, whatever you need.”

“I… ” she stared into the case at the credit sticks. “What can I say?” She gingerly closed the case and set it on the table. Katarina stood and approached her, she smiled and held out her hand. “How about, yes.”

Serra stood and took her hand. “Yes.”

“Good, let me return to my ship to get my belongings and we can be on our way.”

“Fair enough, we have extra quarters for you,” Serra said.

“Oh, I will be bringing one companion with me, if that’s alright.”

“Of course.” Said replied without hesitation.

“Good, we shall return soon.”

With that, the Kurn entourage returned to their ship. The crew of the Naginata gathered in the lounge and discussed what was to happen.

“I can’t believe this! Two Kurn on this ship?!” Hawk bellowed.

“MY ship.” Serra corrected him. “Listen, we do this and we’re set for good. Each of you can buy your own ship with the kind of credits we’re talking about.”

“I don’t want my own ship,” Cali mumbled. “I want to stay here.”

Serra approached her and put her hands on Cali’s shoulders. “Your the best engineer I’ve ever had, if you want to stay, after all this, I would love to have you.”

“Thanks, Captain.”

“Cali…”

“Sorry… Serra.”

“Better.” She gave the woman a hug and turned to Blackstone. “Can you unlock cabins 6 and 7? Power up their systems.”

“Got it.” And Blackstone hurried off.

“Hawk, get back up to the bridge, prime the star drive and check our fuel load.” He nodded and headed to the bridge.

“Cali, head back to engineering, make sure that jump drive is warmed up, I’m positive it’s going to get a lot of use.”

“Right away!” She smiled and rushed to the back of the ship. Serra waited at the docking portal for a while. Then, the chime signaling the return of the Kurn alerted her. The door slid open and Katarina stepped out, after her, another female Kurn excited the docking tube.

“Captain Serra, this is Saphina, my aide.”

While Katarina was muscular and an obvious warrior, Saphina wore a sleek “robe” of fine black silk, bracelets, and necklaces of black and silver. Her most startling feature was her stark white hair, unusual for a Kurn. It was long and well groomed.

“It’s a pleasure.” Serra nodded to her. “Let me show you to your quarters.” She pointed out the sickbay and mess on the way.

“Here we are. Just across the hall from each other.” Saphina gave Katarina a curious look, which was answered with a nod.

“Everything okay?” Serra asked.

“Yes, everything is fine. Saphina is concerned for my safety, but all will be just fine.”

“Great. You should know we have a delivery to make, then we can be on our way.” Serra explained.

“Very good. I will come to the bridge with our first destination in a few hours.” Katarina said.

“Very well.” Serra replied and headed back to the bridge.

On the bridge, Hawk was preparing to disembark. The transit tube was released and the Naginata was free again. Serra entered and sat on her chair. Neither said a word for a few moments until Serra broke the silence.

“What?!”

“I don’t like this captain. The Kurn are not to be trusted.” He said.

“Then trust me, Hawk,” Serra said. “One last run and you can go your own way, if you want.”

Hawk just grumbled and set the destination for their original mission/delivery.

“Since we’re a little behind schedule we better use the jump drive.” Serra flicked the comm switch. “Cali, is the jump drive ready?”

“She’s warmed up and ready to play!” Cali replied shouting over the din of the stardrive charging up.

“Alright, let’s go.” She said to Hawk.

“Jump in three… two… one… ”

The ship shuttered briefly and vanished from real space and into a realm not quite in reality, but not completely outside of it. This was the fastest way to travel long distances quickly, but even then, this run still had two weeks in jump space. A ship the size of the Naginata would have to make two stops for fuel. The Naginata was not a starship, it was a long-haul freighter. While it can enter jump space, it was designed for light speed, star drive travel. After about thirty minutes of jump space, Serra stood up and shut off the interface on her console. “I’m going to grab some shut-eye. I’ll relieve you in four hours.” She said with a yawn.

“Alright.” Hawk replied.

Serra made her way out of the bridge and down to the quarters’ area. As she arrived at her door, down the hall another cabin opened and Katrina stepped out. Serra was taken aback as this warrior… queen was no longer in her armor, but rather a black shirt and loose black pants. No boots, just her bare Crimson skin feet.

“Oh! Serra, if I may have a moment.” Katarina approached her. Seeing a Kurn on her ship still unnerved her a little, but there was something about them, especially Katrina that struck her odd. She’d always heard how savage they were, but Katarina was very, proper and well mannered.

“What can I do for you?” She asked as her door slid open.

“I have the coordinates for the first location.” She said, her hips swayed as she approached her in the dim light of the crew quarters hall. (Power has to be rerouted while using the jump drive to conserve fuel).

“Oh, excellent,” Serra replied as Katarina stopped a mere foot before her. Her open shirt left little to the imagination. Her breasts were loose and bouncing under the flimsy cloth. “Is that all?”

“No, may I talk to you… in private?”

“Of course,” Serra replied and gestured for her to enter her captain’s quarters. After Serra followed her in, she closed the door. Katarina took up a seat on a plush couch and Serra leaned against a table across the main room.

“What can I do for you?” She asked, completely unsure what this warrior woman would ask of her. The room was dimly lit, but not as dark as the hallway. The sound of the jump drive was deeper than the star drive. Almost could be throaty in nature. A slight growl, but not so loud as to make it uncomfortable. The few illumination devices in the room cast deep shadows in much of the room.

“Well, as you know, this mission is to be completely secret, no one must know.”

“Of course,” Serra replied with a confident nod.

“Many places… my people are not… tolerated, so I need a favor from you.”

“I will do what I can.” She was a little leery of what might be coming next, but it was a lot of money, so she was ready for almost anything.

“I may need to have your crew do some of the leg work for me. I will of course accompany you as much as I can and I will likely have to wear a disguise.” She explained.

“My crew and I are at your disposal… uh… Lord Marshall.”

“Katarina… or even just Kat.” She said with a gentle smile.

“Kat.” Serra echoed.

“Good, thank you for understanding.” Kat replied.

“Of course,” Serra said and moved to the small bar in the far corner. She found a bottle and began to pour.

“Drink?” She asked. Kat stood, straightened her top and approached the bar. Serra couldn’t help but watch this powerful, yet sensual woman getting closer. She swallowed hard.

“Please.” She said and stood very close to Serra. She handed the Kurn a glass and waited. Kat held up the glass and smiled. “To a prosperous and fulfilling partnership.” They cobbled their glasses together and drank. Kat drained her glass and set it on the bar. Serra followed suit and poured another round. The slight chill in the room caused Kat’s nipples to become erect. Serra couldn’t help but notice. She tried not to make it obvious, but Kat saw her look. She sipped her drink again. “Join me, won’t you.” She said and returned to the couch. Serra followed her, suddenly nervous. As the big got comfortable, Kat spoke again. “Tell me, how did you come to become a runner?”

“Wait, you want to know about me? I mean, you’re the Lord Marshall of the Kurn Empire! That must be…”

“It is, but I tire of it.” She took a drink and continued. “Once my father and or my brother is back on the throne, I’m going to leave my position as Lord Marshall.” She said,

“But… why? The kind of power… and respect you must command is…”

“Serra, I was born into the royal family. I was trained to fight as soon as I could hold a weapon. I became a soldier at 14, commander at 20, and Lord Marshall by 26. My life has been in the military for as long as I remember.” She explained.

“Okay, another question, if you don’t mind.”

“Please.” She smiled and took a sip of her drink.

“If your father, the Emperor and your brother, the first born, are both missing, aren’t you?…”

Katarina chuckled and drained her glass. “Empress, yes. Technically, until either of them is found, I do rule the entire Crimson Empire.”

She sighed, finished her drink, and set the glass on a table to her side. “Serra, I’m tired of it. I’m tired of the responsibility and, to be honest, the fighting, the conquest, the subjugation of others. I did take the throne, briefly. The Kurn has fought, defeated and enslaved the Grimdrax race many years ago, under my father’s rule. My first act as Empress was to free them.”

“Really? Why?” She shook her head. “I mean…”

“I know. It felt wrong to me. I’m not my father, or my brother.” She took a deep breath and slowly let it out. Serra noticed it wavered slightly. “I want to be free. ” She said whimsically, “free to roam the stars and discover new peoples… and sensations.” She smirked at Serra. Serra shifted in her seat, suddenly feeling… arousal?! What the hell?!

“Everything okay?” Kat asked.

“Y- yes,” Serra replied.

“You’re… flustered, I think it’s cute,” Kat said and shifted closer to the Captain.

“I Uh…”

Katarina reached her Crimson red hands up to Serra’s face and took it in her hands. Her touch was surprisingly gentle for a warrior. Serra felt her body tense as Kat’s face got closer to hers. Kat licked her dark red lips and pushed them gently against Serra’s slightly parted lips. The kiss was so sweet and gentle, much to Serra’s surprise. The kiss was slow and sensual. Serra felt herself melt into Kat’s hands, and begin to get lost in the kiss. Then she felt Kat’s tongue emerge from her mouth and gently poke into Serra’s mouth. This sent a thrill through her body and followed her lead. Serra’s tongue wrestled with Kat’s. Kat’s hands fell to Serra’s hips and gripped them firmly. Serra could feel her body reacting to Kat’s kiss and touch, and hungered for more. Kat pulled away and smiled at her. Serra let out a soft whimper.

“This trip is going to be very interesting.” She smirked.

“Uh-huh.” Was all Serra could say.

“Shall we take this to your bunk?” Kat suggested.

“Uh-huh.” Serra repeated herself. Kat chuckled and stood. She reached out and helped Serra to her feet and led her to the adjoining room where Serra’s bed was. Just before they got to the bed, a chime rang in her room.

“Dammit,” Serra growled.

“It’s okay, the Captain has responsibilities. Answer it.” Kat told her. Serra moved to a panel in the wall. “Yes?”

“Captain, we’re about to drop out of jump space for refuel.” Hawk’s voice crackled over the comm.

“On my way.” Serra replied. She turned off the comm panel and turned to Kat. “I’m sorry. I really want this to happen.”

“Captain, it’s alright.” Kat approached her. She took Serra’s face in her hands again. “Is going to be a long voyage, we have time. And we will make time.”

Serra sighed. “Alright.” The two excited Serra’s quarters, Kat returned to her quarters and Serra headed to the bridge. As she entered she flicked on the power to her console and sat down. Moments later Lexi and Cali entered.

“Cut the jump drive in three… two… now,” Serra said. The ship shuttered and the deep roar of the jump drive wound down and the star drive took over.

“We’re out,” Lexi said, glancing at her console. “Everything is running at 97%.” She added.

“Nice job Cali,” Serra said to her engineer. Who responded with a proud smile. Behind that smile was a concern. She hadn’t tuned the ship to use the jump drive much, as per Serra’s orders. The stardrive was plenty for their purposes.

“2 clicks.” Cali said.

“Hawk, take us in,” Serra said as she sat back.

“Roger.” He replied. A loud thump followed by a clang and the ship was docked. “Hawk, Cali…”

“On it Captain,” Hawk replied and headed out of the bridge followed by Cali. Serra turned around in her chair to face Lexi. “Everything okay?”

“What? Yeah, I guess so.” You’ve been quiet.”

“I’ve barely seen you since…”

“The Kurn…”

“Yeah.”

“You have a problem with this deal?” Serra asked.

“No… but…”

“What?”

“I wish you would ask your crew before doing something like that,” Lexi said.

“You’re right, I should have let you guys talk more. I guess I saw the amount of money we’re going to get and…”

“I get it.” Lexi nodded, “but, we don’t know how dangerous this is going to be. Think about everything we know about the Kurn. I just hope we all survive to spend some of those credits.”

“You are in no danger.” Saphina appeared in the doorway of the bridge. She wore black leather breeches and a lace up vest. Her stark white hair hung down around her face and shoulders. “This mission should not bring any conflict.”

“Saphina, you have to understand her point of view. We know so little of your kind, and what we do know…” Serra explained.

“The Kurn are warmongers and conquers.” She finished Serra’s statement. “To be honest Captain, that was Katarina’s father and grandfather. Her brother never wanted the throne, and frankly only sat in it for a few months. When the Lord Marshall took the throne, she began to change things. The military took a more defensive posture, she freed the Grimdrax…”

“I know, she told me,” Serra replied without thinking.

“She told you? When?” Lexi asked.

“Yes…” Serra paused.

“While they were sequestered away in Captain Serra’s quarters,” Saphina replied.

“Uh… what?!”

Before Serra could reply, Saphina interrupted her. “The Lord Marshall was attempting to put your Captain at ease. As you said yourself, the Kurn don’t have the best reputation amongst most other races and she has tried very hard to change our image. Which is why she chose me for this mission. I believe the Kurn can do… better, and we should.”

“Okay…” Lexi replied, unconvinced.

“I how I… we can convince you,” Saphina said. Lexi cocked her head. Saphina gave her a slight smirk. Lexi was suddenly… intrigued.

“Hawk to Captain Harkner.” A voice crackled over the comm. Serra flipped a switch. “Go ahead, Hawk.” Refueling is going to take a little longer than usual.”

“What’s going on?”

“The station’s generators are on the fritz, they’ve switched to backup power, but the transfer is slow going. Cali is trying to assist, but it looks like we’re going to be here for a bit longer.”

“Okay, thank you, Hawk. Naginata out.” She flipped the comm switch. “Dammit.”

“Do you want me to…”

“No, Lexi, just relax. If you want to disembark and check out the station, see if you can find anything interesting “.

“Yes Captain.” Lexi replied and exited the bridge. As she brushed past Saphina, the Kurn drug her hand across Lexi’s ass. Lexi glanced over her shoulder at her and smirked.

“I’m going to power down all nonessential systems, so you might want to return to your quarters or even explore the station.”

Saphina nodded to her and left the bridge. Serra turned back to her console and began powering down select systems. The last one cast the bridge into darkness.

“Damn, I should have waited till I was off the bridge for the last one.”

“Just follow the sound of my voice.” A deep sultry voice drew her attention.

“Kat?”

“Come to me, Captain.” She said in that same sultry voice. Serra reached her hands out in front of her, she could just make out the tall curvy warrior’s form in the doorway. Then, she felt a strong, but gentle hand grasps hers. “There you are.” Katarina purred and pulled Serra close to her.

“Thank you.” Serra whispered.

“You’re welcome.” She replied. “Let us find someplace more… private.”

“The ship should be empty, we are the only two aboard.”

“So, what you’re saying is the entire ship is ours?”

“Yes.”

“Good.” She grabbed Serra’s wrist and pulled her firmly down the hall. A thrill raced through Serra as the emerged into the lounge. Kat spun around and pulled Serra to her. She wrapped her arms around Serra and kissed her. Kat began to grab at Serra’s jacket. Together, they removed it and left it in a pile on the floor. Then her shirt was over her head and off. Kat backed up a couple of steps and shrugged off her flimsy gown. Serra stood, stunned and in awe of the warrior. Her body was curvy, yet muscular. A few scars here and there, but it was like she was sculpted from stone. A tuft of hair sat just about her womanhood and her nipples were as deep red as her lips.

“Now you.” She said in a low, lust-filled tone. Serra quickly removed her heavy boots and pants. Soon, she was also naked in front of a woman, an alien, she just met. Serra approached her again and, to her surprise, Kat stooped low, wrapped her arms around her, and lifted her with ease into her arms. Serra wrapped her legs around her and locked her ankles. Their mouths hungered for each other. The sudden, unexpected passion these two women shared was intense and overwhelming. Kat carried her to a table and set her on it. She dropped to her knees and spread Serra’s legs. She looked up at the Captain and smiled. Serra just nodded and bit her lip. Lord Marshall Katarina Graglubute kneeled before Captain Serra Harkner and devoured her sex. Her tongue probed, her fingers rubbed, her lips kissed and sucked. She got utterly lost in the moment until she propped herself up on her elbows and looked down at the powerful, beautiful, sensual warrior bringing more pleasure than she’d experienced in many years. Serra dropped back onto the table as she moaned louder and louder. She squirmed and writhed as her orgasm began to overtake her. Finally, Serra screamed as she climaxed. Katarina swirled her tongue and nibbled her clit. Serra came again!

Katarina stood and pulled Serra to a sitting position. Serra was weakened by the pleasure she just experienced but still wrapped her arms around the red-skinned woman. Her face buried between Kat’s breasts, she began to catch her breath. Kat held her in her powerful arms while Serra finally pulled herself together.

“Well, that was… unexpected,” Serra said.

“I hope you enjoyed it,” Kat replied.

“Very much!” Serra replied. “May I… reciprocate?”

“I believe I would enjoy that very much,” Kat said.

“Me too” Serra said and kissed her. Kat turned the two of them 180 degrees effortlessly and leaned against the table. Her thighs parted and she leaned back slightly. Serra, without hesitation, dropped to her knees. The outer folds of her sex were dark red, like the lips Serra has already kissed. For a moment, Serra wondered what an alien would taste like, how different would it be? Those thoughts were banished when she hungrily buried her face in Kat’s womanhood and began to lick her. The taste was… indescribable. It was sweet, tangy with a slightly bitter aftertaste. It was a fascinating mix of flavors she found to be very enjoyable. She spread Kat’s outer folds and pushed her tongue in as far as she could. The Kurn groaned and grunted. Much more “animalistic” than Serra’s sounds of pleasure. Serra reached up and gripped one of Kat’s large breasts in her hand. She pinched her dark red nipple, which caused Kat to give off a higher-pitched moan. Serra could tell by how aroused and wet the Lord Marshall was getting, that she liked that very much. So, she reached up with her other hand and did the same. Kat leaned back a little more and looked down at the Captain who was lost in her own lustful desires. Soon, Kat grunted several times in succession and bucked against Serra’s face. She slumped back on the table breathing heavily. Gasping for air.

Serra stood, kissing her way up Katarina’s muscular body. “Did that satisfy you, Lord Marshall?” She whispered into her ear as she kissed the long pointed ear of the Kurn.

“Y-yes… Captain.” She replied. “Very much.”

“Lord Marshall, we have something to discuss.” Saphina said from the shadows in the far corner. Serra, startled, slid next to Kat, trying to hide. Katarina chuckled and kissed her. “It’s alright Captain.”

Serra looked at her confused, then to Saphina, “Were you watching us?!”

“I only came in a few moments ago, I know better than to interrupt my Lord Marshall in the middle of her pleasures.” Saphina explained.

“Serra,” Kat put an arm around her and pulled her close. “We will continue this… later.” She kissed her and nodded to her. Serra echoed the nod and Kat moved off toward Saphina. Not an ounce of modesty or discomfort for being naked. Serra stood in the lounge, naked, alone, and suddenly very uncomfortable. She raced back through the ship retrieving her clothing and got dressed on the bridge. She sat in her chair and stared out the front window at the station.

The silence was broken by a comm chime. She flipped the switch, took a breath.

“Naginata, Captain Serra Harkner.”

“Hello… Captain. I will be straight to the point. I know who takes passage on your ship and when you leave the dock, I will connect with your ship and take what you carry.” The deep gruff voice said.

“I don’t know what you’re-”

“Do not cross me, Captain! I will cripple your ship and take your cargo by force if need be. Do not try to stay in Port, I know your refuel has just completed and you should disembark immediately.”

“Listen to me asshole-”

The comm went dead, the other party cut connecting.

“What the fuck?!”

Just then another comm chime sounded. This was from inside the ship.

“Bridge.” She said,

“Captain, refueling is done, and the crew is on board. If that is all, I’m going to seal her up and prep for take off.” Hawk was always very business-like.

“Do it.”

She sat for a moment, then got on the internal comm again. “Attention crew and visitors, this is the Captain, I need everyone in the lounge immediately. Before we leave.” She flicked off the comm and hurried to the lounge. Hawk, Lexi, Saphina, and a now fully dressed Katarina waited. Just as Serra entered, Cali came up from the engine room.

“What’s up Cap?” Lexi asked.

“I just received a message from… well, I don’t know where. But they told me to disembark immediately and prepared to be boarded.”

“What?!” Hawk and Lexi said in unison.

“They said they know what we’re transporting,” her eyes went to the two Kurn. “And they will take them… by force if need be.”

They all stood in silence until a small voice came from the back of the room. “What do we do Captain?” Cali asked.

“I’ll tell you what we’re going to do.” Katarina stepped forward. “If I may Captain?”

Serra nodded.

“We will disembark, let them connect and I will deal with this myself.”

“Lord Marshall!” Saphina began to interject.

“No, let me deal with this. I cannot and will not put the Captain or the crew of the Naginata in any danger.”

“You charged us with-” Serra also interjected, but Katarina raised her hand.

“Please, I will meet whomever this is at the docking portal and deal with it.” She said headed to her quarters. She brushed past Serra and gave her a quick smile. Saphina quickly followed after her.

“Alright crew, let’s get ready,” Serra said and headed off to the bridge. Hawk and Lexi followed her, while Cali returned to the engine room. In Katarina’s quarters, she began to don her battle gear. Her royal Lord Marshall armor and weapons.

“You’re not going to fight whoever this is, are you?” Saphina asked as she helped Katarina attach her black cloak with red runes along the trim. She turned to Saphina and put a strong hand on the woman’s shoulder.

“I appreciate your concern, but everything will be fine, I swear it.” She smiled and took the slightly smaller woman in her arms. “Do you trust me?”

“Of course Lord Marshall,” Saphina replied.

“Good.” She replied and pulled her in, kissing her hard. Katarina released her and spun on her heel.

A loud thump and a clank signaled that the Naginata was released from the port dock.

“So, where is this going to happen?” Lexi asked as she watched out of the front window.

“I… don’t quite know,” Serra said as she steered away from the port.

“Move about 20 clicks out, they will come to us,” Katarina said from the doorway of the bridge. Serra turned to see the Lord Marshall of the Kurn adored in even heavier black iron plate armor with a purple tunic emblazoned with the royal seal on her chest. Two heavy pistols mag-locked to her hips and a huge 5 and a half foot long greatsword on her back. Serra was in awe, Hawk was impressed and Lexi… was… turned on!

“I will move to the dock portal and await contact.” Katarina stated.

“Please, don’t get into a firefight on my ship,” Serra replied.

“Of course, Captain.” She nodded and gave a slight smile. Then, she turned and excited the bridge.

“We’re all going to die,” Hawk said and turned back to his console.

“Everything will be alright.” Serra said. I hope.

Suddenly, a large ship appeared before them, easily five times the size of the Naginata.

“Shit!” Serra exclaimed while punching a few buttons. “All stop!”

“Cloak tech?! Who are these people?” Hawk barked.

“My people.” Saphina appeared in the doorway of the bridge. Serra spun her chair around. “I’m sorry, what?!”

“That is a Kurn light cruiser,” Said said.

“This is not good,” Lexi said, reaching for the combat console.

“Wait!” Serra reached out to signal her. “If she is the… Lord Marshall, shouldn’t they listen to her?”

“No, not necessarily. “When Serra took the throne, made all those changes and stepped down, many were not thrilled with her choices as Empress. When she took back the title of Lord Marshall, she put a tribunal of people who had been her father’s advisors. So, her reversing course on some things her father had put in place made a lot of people angry, even those she left in charge.”

“She still commands your military, right?” Lexi asked. Saphina approached her, a little too closely. “Yes… and no.”

“What do you mean?” Serra asked.

“Again, when she made the decision to go on this mission, she put another in charge. She’s still Lord Marshall, but until she removes that person, she really doesn’t have too much sway over the Crimson Empire’s forces.”

“Oh boy!” Lexi mumbled. Saphina put her hand on Lexi’s shoulder. “All will be well, have faith.”

The ship lumbered next to the Naginata and soon, that familiar thump and clank rang through the much smaller ship. The docking tube had extended from the Kurn ship to the Naginata and the door pressurized and opened. Three large armor figures matched down the tube toward Katarina. She shoved out her chin in defiance. The three figures stopped at the end of the tube and said nothing for several minutes. Then…

“Lord Marshall Katarina Graglubute.” The lead figure said in a low commanding voice.

“Who are you?” She narrowed her eyes.

The lead figure approaching began to remove their helmet, revealing…

“Kiertan?! Brother, where have you been?” Katarina asked, shocked.

“Sister, how have you been?” He swept his long black hair from his deep red face. His build was slender compared to the two soldiers with him.

On the bridge, the crew could hear their conversation, as Serra had opened a comm channel so they could listen.

“Her brother?! Wasn’t he one of the people we’re supposed to find?” Hawk asked.

“Yeah.” Serra replied.

“Answer me, where have you been? After father disappeared, you were to ascend, but you disappeared as well.”

“I went to look for father.” He shrugged.

“You didn’t TELL anyone!” Katarina yelled at him. He just smirked at her.

“Give up the search Kat, he doesn’t want to be found,” Kiertan said.

“How can you know that?”

“He told me.”

“What?! When did you speak to him?”

“A month ago.”

“Where is he?”

“I don’t know.”

“But, you spoke to him!” Katarina growled.

“Kat, he’s on an unmarked freighter with a scrambler.” He explained. “He found me actually. He swore me to silence.”

“But you found me, why?”

“I knew what you were doing, I had someone follow you.” He explained.

“You what?!”

“I wanted to tell you to give up the search. He doesn’t want to return to the Empire.” He paused. “And neither do I.”

“Kiertan, you have responsibilities to the Empire and the throne!” She exclaimed, “I don’t want the throne.”

“Neither do I.” He said.

“But-”

“Listen to me, Kat. The Crimson Empire is not what it once was. Father couldn’t see what was coming, but I did. And you started it. You started the changes. Freeing the Grimdrax was a huge and very important first step. I know that if I don’t return and take mate, the Graglubute line ends with us.”

“Ends? But, couldn’t Katarina return and have heirs?” Hawk asked.

“No, the Lord Marshall doesn’t take male mates.” Saphina said, turning her gaze to Serra who blushed. “Many women in our society prefer the company of other women.” Then her gaze turned to Lexi.”

“Oh…” Hawk sat back in his chair.

“How do you…” Serra started to ask but stopped.

“We manage.” Saphina replied.

“I need to at least see father.” Katarina said.

“He will find you,” Kiertan replied. He stepped close to his “little” sister and put a hand on her shoulder. “If you no longer want to rule, then don’t. But, I beg you, return home, name a successor that has your ideals. Someone who will guide our people toward a better future, without all the conquest and war.”

“I…”

“Kat, for the future of the Empire, do this one last thing for me, for our people.”

“Why me?”

“You, my dear sister, have the will to do this thing.” He gave her his typical crooked, slightly mischievous smile. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

“Commander…” one soldier said softly. Kiertan nodded and turned back to his sister.

“Please.”

She nodded to him.

“Good. See it done and I might suggest leaving the Graglubute name behind.”

“Of course.” She understood the reasons.

“Farewell dear sister, live like every day is everything.”